Marie Doherty sworn in as Clinton City mayor; two new council members take oath

Marie Doherty was sworn in as mayor of Clinton City during an inaugural ceremony in which two newly elected council members, Adam Brett Larson and Christopher Danson, also took the oath of office.

Trevor Cahoon, the city manager, opened the event and introduced a flag ceremony and a national anthem performance by Melissa Tinsmeyer before the oaths were administered by a city official. After each oath the official offered signed copies of the oath documents.

"My full name is Marie Doherty," Doherty said while repeating the oath to support the constitutions of the United States and the State of Utah and to perform the duties of her office "with fidelity." Adam Brett Larson and Christopher Danson likewise recited the oath and were congratulated by the administering official.

In remarks after his oath, Adam Brett Larson highlighted voter engagement in the recent election, saying Clinton City recorded a 46.12% turnout — "the largest in our history" — and contrasted it with what he called lower turnout in neighboring Clearfield City. "The biggest danger to our community is when people stop caring," Larson said, urging residents to continue public participation and debate.

Christopher Danson thanked residents and past leaders and emphasized accountability. "The eyes of the city are now on us. How we act, how we listen, and how we govern will be our testimony to the ideals of this city," Danson said, adding that the council must raise the standard for elected officials and keep residents informed.

Mayor Doherty framed the evening as a family moment and used her remarks to honor Clinton's civic history, particularly the contributions of women who served on the council. She named former council member Karen Peterson and others, noted two deceased former members, and presented yellow roses as a symbol of the women's voting movement.

Doherty outlined governance priorities that include transparency, stronger communication and closer public involvement in fiscal decisions. She announced that, for the first time, the city will hold a budget open house this spring to gather input "long before the ink dries," and said her office at City Hall will be open to residents. "Transparency shouldn't be a buzzword. It should be a family value," she said.

The ceremony concluded when Mayor Doherty adjourned the meeting and invited attendees to a reception downstairs.

• Who spoke: Mayor Marie Doherty; Adam Brett Larson, council member; Christopher Danson, council member; Trevor Cahoon, city manager; Melissa Tinsmeyer, anthem performer; an administering official recorded as 'Clerk.'

• Next steps: No votes were taken. The mayor announced a budget open house to be held this spring.